Watermark's Church Leadership Podcast

In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee unpacks the roles of APEST found in Ephesians 4:11-13 —Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Shepherds, and Teachers —and how these leadership giftings shape the church. He explores their strengths and challenges, explaining why a balanced team is essential for both growth and sustainability. Whether you’re planting churches or leading teams, this episode will help you recognize, empower, and collaborate with different gifts for maximum impact.  Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

In today’s fast-paced culture, it’s easy to feel the pull toward the next big opportunity. As a follow-up to December’s episode, Knowing When to Leave, this episode dives into the topic of knowing when to stay and the value of long-term leadership in ministry. If you’re wrestling with the decision to stay or go, this episode offers practical wisdom and encouragement to embrace the long game in ministry—and experience the joy it brings. Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

Urgency can make or break a leader. In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee unpacks the topic of urgency and why it is the secret weapon of great leaders by driving motivation and action. Tune in for encouragement and practical steps to help you lead with urgency, embrace meaningful goals, and move your organization away from complacency.  Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

In the final episode of the year, host John McGee expresses gratitude to listeners for their selfless service to Christ and others. He acknowledges their impactful work and extends heartfelt thanks for their dedication, both seen and unseen. We will see you all in 2025! Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

Struggling to discern if it’s time to step away from your current role? In the next episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee and Dave Bruskas (Director of Re:generation at Watermark) dive into the challenges of navigating career transitions in ministry. From recognizing the impact on your family and addressing unresolved conflicts to aligning your desires with God’s will, they offer practical wisdom and spiritual guidance for making these tough decisions. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how to leave well—or stay with purpose. Recommended Resources:Eugene Peterson, "Under the Unpredictable Plant"Eugene Peterson, "Working the Angles"Bruce Waltke, "Finding the Will of God"Justin Lester, "Necessary Endings"Gary Thomas, "When to Walk Away"Episode 115 - How to Leave a Job Well Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

Join the Church Leadership Podcast as we celebrate Watermark Community Church’s 25th anniversary by exploring the inspiring history of Re|engage. Since its inception in 2006, our marriage enrichment ministry has transformed the lives of over 137,000 couples across 650 churches. Hear powerful personal stories of change and discover how this gospel-centered discipleship program strengthens marriages, fosters community and accountability, and aims to impact one million marriages. www.reengage.org Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee and Caitlin Van Wagoner dive into Watermark's Master Calendar system. They chat about how it keeps the church mission-focused and resources in sync, tackling the ups and downs of growing organizations. Tune in to hear about the power of solid planning, the importance of leadership buy-in, and how teamwork makes ministry more impactful.Designation Service MenuMaster Calendar Process Explained Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

In this session from Church Leaders Conference, John and Pam McGee share the importance of prioritizing your marriage as your first ministry. He emphasizes evaluating one's ministry, the significance of character and competency in leadership, and the necessity of being content and intentional in your marriage. CLC Giveaway Blocks Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.

Explore the unique sayings that shape the culture of a church community. From 'Think Like an Owner' to the 'Last 2%/24-Hour Rule,' discover how words can influence leadership dynamics and team ownership. Delve into lighthearted moments like a game of farkle that strengthens friendships. Learn the significance of balancing leadership responsibilities with personal connections, while prioritizing effective communication. Get insights on fostering a supportive environment where faithfulness and humor go hand in hand.

In this week’s episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, Dave Bruskas (Director of Re:generation) shares his personal journey of working in ministry and the hardships he has faced along the way. Listen to be reminded of God's faithfulness and sustaining presence, and be encouraged of the ways He uses our challenges to shape our faith and leadership.  Church Leaders Conference is Watermark Resources’ annual event designed to refresh, equip, and inspire church leaders. Whether you’re a senior pastor, small group leader, tech director, or serve in operations, CLC offers two full days of practical training, biblical encouragement, and behind-the-scenes access to real ministry in action. Through main stage sessions, over 50 breakout options, and live ministry showcases, attendees gain tools and insights to strengthen their leadership and better serve their local churches. Join us on April 27-28 or April 29-30, 2026 in Dallas, TX. Learn more and register at CLC26.com.